If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter and disorganisation in your home, it may be time to find an organiser. But with so many options out there, how do you find the right one for you? Let’s explore how to find a home organiser that meets your needs.
1. To find an organiser, start with online research
The first step in finding a home organiser is to do some online research. Search for the service you’re after + your location. For example – ‘cleaner Central Coast‘
Look out for information about their services, pricing, and experience. This information will help you narrow down your list to a few potential candidates. You may find some are too expensive, some have hidden fees, or you just get a bad vibe from their websites.
It’s also a good idea to be aware of online databases that list organisers – most have no vetting process and are just there to make money off new business owners. Established organisers rarely pay to display on these websites, and you’ll find they are full of inexperienced start-ups.
2. Check reviews and ratings
Once you have a shortlist of potential home organisers, it’s important to check their reviews and ratings. Reviews from previous clients can give you an idea of how satisfied they were with the organiser’s services.
If the organiser has a website, they may also have a testimonials page where you can read feedback from previous clients. Take this with a grain of salt though, remember – it’s their website.
Google views are probably the best course of action here, as are the comments on their social media posts. Have a dig and see what you can find.
3. Do a social media deep dive
If you want to get a good idea of who you’re going to be working with, check how they interact on their social media. Look at their installed systems and ask yourself if their style suits your needs. Also, beware of ‘perfect pics’ as few organisers are qualified photographers. Many are just buying their images from stock companies and it’s not really their work. I actually am a photographer but when I’m in a client’s home, I’m not there to do a photoshoot, I’m there to organise, so my Instagram images look like phone snapshots.
Look for before and after pics, they are very hard to buy so if you’re seeing the entire process, you’re probably seeing their work. Also, keep in mind that many clients don’t want us to share their pics – it can’t be helped.
I offer a free printable declutter-your-home checklist if you are keen to get started before you find an organiser.
4. Consider their areas of specialisation
Home organisers often have areas of specialisation. Some may specialise in organising kitchens or closets, while others may focus on home offices or garages. Most should offer decluttering services.
Some are all about calming the chaos of family homes and creating streamlined systems that keep everything moving (that’s me.) While some organisers may not have an understanding of working with children and how systems need to be tweaked to accommodate tiny mess makers.
Some organisers specialise in eco homes, some in moving, and some are all-rounders. Just make sure the organiser you find works for your needs.
5. Assess their communication skills
Communication is key when working with a home organiser. You want to find someone who listens to your needs and communicates clearly with you throughout the process.
During your initial consultation with the organiser, assess their communication skills. Do they listen to your concerns? Do they ask questions to understand your needs? Do they explain their process clearly? And most importantly, do you gel well with them?
6. Consider their pricing
Home organising services can vary widely in price. You’ll find that most organisers charge an hourly rate, but some charge a flat fee for a specific project.
Consider your budget when choosing a home organiser. Look for an organiser whose pricing is transparent and fits within your budget. Keep in mind that hiring a professional home organiser is an investment in your home and your well-being. It’s ok to outsource, you’re busy people.
Check out my pricing here
7. Schedule a consultation
Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few potential candidates, schedule a consultation with each one. This gives you the opportunity to meet the organiser, ask questions, and get a feel for their personality and working style.
During the consultation, be sure to ask about their process, timeline, and pricing. This is also a good time to discuss any specific concerns you have about your home and what you hope to achieve through the organising process.
8. Make your final decision
After you’ve met with each organiser, it’s time to make your final decision. Consider all the factors we’ve discussed, with a focus on communication skills and pricing.
Ultimately, you want to find an organiser who you feel comfortable working with and who can help you achieve your organising goals.
And don’t stress, we have seen it all – if you’re thinking, my house is so messy, where do I start – the answer is, start with finding an organiser who meets your needs.